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• Su rf icial impacts (e.g., range improvements or range fires) in native sagebrush or clonal <br />mountain brush stands may be relatively short•lived. Frischnecht (7963) found sagebrush <br />readily reinvaded brush stands which had been removed. In a summary of findings by <br />others, Kimbal L, et al. (1985) stated Gembel oak stands impacted by fire had [he same <br />structure prior to the fire in 18 to 20 years. The more drastic disturbances associated <br />with mining will require longer periods for woody plant reestablishment. Successional <br />time frames (starting from primary levels) and patterns, applied reclamation practices, <br />level of disturbance, and the inherent developmental requirements of native woody <br />vegetation ell determine the level of reestablished woody plant density and composition <br />during the liability period. At any rate, the composition differences and densities lower <br />than premine conditions are inevitable (see Revegetation Monitoring Reports for the Seneca <br />11 Nine, 1987 to 1993). This subject is discussed further under woody plant density <br />success standards later in this tab. <br />As detailed in the following plan, selected areas will receive supplemental shrub seeding, <br />will have shrubs and trees planted, or will receive mature shrub transplants. These areas <br />will not be extensive, but will be oriented to enhance habitat and vegetative diversity, <br />• mitigate the loss of cover in the larger mining blocks, provide edge in the reclaimed <br />habitat, provide a source of browse for wildlife, and establish areas where woody plants <br />may regenerate or spread. Shrub and tree plantings are arranged to provide travel <br />corridors for wildlife where possible. <br />For adequate livestock performance (lactation, gestation, and daily gains) on rangeland, a <br />balanced forage diet is necessary. The herbaceous component will provide the majority of <br />forage and adequate nutrient quality (digestible protein, energy, phosphorous and <br />carotene) during the grazing season (Cook, et aL., 1977). For ranges [hat are dominated <br />by woody species, the amount and availability of nutritious and palatable herbaceous <br />species is significantly reduced, affecting the forage available to livestock. <br />The species selected for inclusion in the permanent seed mixes were not only selected for <br />establishment of a predominantly native, diverse, productive, self-sustaining community, <br />but also to diversify dietary intake and meet the nutrient requirements of livestock and <br />wildlife during spring and summer (Cook, e[ al. 1977). wi[dl ife can benefit from early <br />green-up of herbaceous species or the standing forage from these species can supplement <br />the diet as an energy source when available in the winter (as evidenced by large elk herds <br />on reclaimed areas of nearby surf ate mines in ui nter). Inclusion of fortis and shrubs in <br />3 <br />